Bill would bar sex-selection abortions in NC

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - Several North Carolina House Republicans want to make it unlawful for abortion providers to knowingly perform the procedure on a pregnant woman if the gender of the fetus played a significant factor in seeking the abortion.

The legislation submitted before Wednesday's bill filing deadline would prohibit sex-selection abortions. Abortion providers could be sued or face civil fines reaching $100,000. Litigation could be initiated by the pregnant woman, her relative or another doctor.

A primary sponsor is Rep. Ruth Samuelson of Charlotte, who spearheaded passage of a 2011 law placing more restrictions on abortion. A federal judge struck down a portion of the law.

Another bill filed Wednesday would expand the type of medical providers who can refuse on moral and religious grounds to participate in procedures that result in abortion.

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